When shopping for a new washer, look for a front loading (horizontal-axis) machine. This machine may cost more to buy but uses about a third of the energy and less water than a top-loading machine. With a front loader, you'll also save more on clothes drying, because they remove more water from your clothes during the spin cycle. Look for the Energy Star label.

In our opinion, the old fashioned box graters work the best since they are sturdy and offer several different grating sizes.

When deep-frying french fries, do not overload the basket. Trying to cook too many at one time will result in greasy and soggy fries.